Best Modular Fishing Kayaks in 2023 – Buyer’s Guide

The problem of having insufficient storage space when we want to store our kayak is one that most of us have faced. But what if I told you that you could buy a modular kayak and say goodbye to this problem forever? 

What’s a modular kayak? It’s a kind of kayak that you could take apart to store in tight places and transport with more ease. It’s also ideal as it allows you to add extra mid-sections to increase the storage area or the number of seats.

There’s a misconception stating that they’re not as durable as traditional kayaks, but it’s completely wrong because they’re robust and stable to the extent that they could be used for fishing.

Since there are many aspects that you should consider before purchasing one, we’ve decided to compile a list of the best modular fishing kayaks on the market. You’ll also find a short buying guide, along, so that you can make an informed decision by the end of the article.

List of the Best Modular Fishing Kayaks:

  1. Tequila! GTX Angler Solo – Best Overall
  2. Tequila! GTX Angler Tandem – Runner Up
  3. Falcon – Best on A Budget
  4. Kingfisher – Highest Weight Capacity
  5. Martini GTX Angler – Best Sit-In Modular Kayak

The 5 Best Modular Fishing Kayaks in 2023

a photo of an angler in a kayak to show the best modular fishing kayak

1. Point 65 N Tequila! GTX Angler – Best Overall

The Tequila! GTX Angler Solo is an excellent sit-on-top modular fishing kayak with impressive trackability as it features a new tracking keel, allowing it to move in a straight line. It’s also relatively lightweight (61.8 pounds), robust, stable, and safe to use.

The assembling and dismantling process of the solo kayak is a piece of cake because of its innovative, patented Snap-Tap solution that allows you to put the pieces together in a few seconds. Once you purchase the middle piece, it can also be easily converted into a tandem kayak.

It’s equipped with 3 rod holders to allow hands-free fishing. It’s also equipped with an extra-comfortable air seat with an adjustable backrest, allowing the paddler to adjust it to the most comfortable position. 

What’s more, the seat covers are made of a fabric that is laminated and molded over EVA foam, guaranteeing comfort like never before. You’ll also enjoy the multiple footrests and the extra legroom. 

It has a lot of storage space where you can stuff your gear, but take care that the load on this solo kayak should never exceed 265 pounds.

Pros

  • Dry and comfortable seating 
  • Allows hands-free fishing
  • Excellent trackability 
  • Can be converted into a tandem kayak
  • Easy assembling and dismantling 
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Small weight capacity

Bottom Line 

The Point 60 N Tequila! GTX Angler Solo is an excellent kayak for fishing, paddling, and relaxing, as it’s comfortable to use for long hours thanks to its comfortable seat and multiple footrests and backrests. It’s also perfect if you have limited storage and car space. 

2. Point 65 N Tequila! Angler GTX Tandem – Runner-Up

This is the tandem version of the above-mentioned model. It’s yet another excellent sit-on-top modular fishing kayak from Point 65 N kayaks with impressive trackability due to the tracking keel on the bottom that helps the kayak go forward in a straight line as well as boosts its speed. 

It’s effortless to put together and take apart because it features the Snap-Tap system. All you need to do to assemble the kayak is to align the rear and front sections together, snap them till they click, and voila! 

Do you need to make room for a third or even fourth paddler? You can! All you need to do is add a mid-section to this tandem kayak. You could also use this trick to maximize storage space.

Like the Tequila! GTX Angler Solo, this kayak has a comfortable air seat with a pneumatically adjustable backrest. Likewise, the seat covers are made of a durable material with mesh-like fabric that’s laminated and molded over EVA foam.

Point 65 N Tequila GTX Tandem is an excellent modular fishing kayak because it’s made with the anglers’ needs in mind. It comes with 3 rod holders, two of which are flush-mounted behind the seat, and the third is on a deck mount in front of the paddler. You can remove the deck-mounted rod holder and place any other fishing equipment. 

Furthermore, there are two additional deck mounts on the solo and the mid-section, so you can add any other equipment you want. I also find it impressive that its weight capacity accommodates up to 530 pounds. 

Pros

  • Dry and comfortable seating 
  • Excellent trackability and speed
  • Easy assembling and dismantling 
  • Multiple rod holders and mounts
  • High weight capacity
  • Can carry more than 2 paddlers

Cons

  • The middle piece is relatively heavy
  • Relatively expensive

Bottom Line

The Point 65 N Tequila! GTX Tandem Kayak is one of the best modular fishing kayaks on the market, thanks to its impressive trackability, comfortable seats, and ability to accommodate accessories. Moreover, it’s ideal for those who love to go on fishing trips with multiple people, as it suits three or more people depending on the mid-sections you add.

3. Point 65 N Falcon – Best on a Budget

Our budget pick is the Point 65 N Falcon kayak. Like all the other Point 65 N kayaks, this sit-on-top kayak offers durability, high-quality performance, and excellent tracking; however, it comes at a much more affordable price.

It’s ideal for beginner paddlers looking to get a simple entry-level kayak, as it’s lightweight, safe, and easy to maneuver in the water. Another thing that makes it ideal for beginners is that it’s easy to assemble and disassemble due to the innovative snap track system from Point 65.

You can comfortably paddle or fish for long hours in this kayak as it features a seat with an adjustable backrest, contoured foot braces, and cup holders. However, it’s not completely fitted for fishing as it doesn’t feature rod holders or mounts for other fishing equipment.

You’ll still have plenty of storage options with easy access for your gear, including front and back tank wells secured by a bungee cord and a cargo net to keep your gear safe, as well as a watertight hatch to keep your gear dry.

You can enjoy paddling alone or with a friend, as it can be converted into a tandem kayak. You can also increase the kayak’s storage space by adding a mid-section between the two seats, but keep in mind that the kayak’s weight capacity is 220 pounds when it’s solo and 485 when it’s tandem.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Lightweight
  • Safe and easy to maneuver
  • Comfortable seat with adjustable backrest
  • Excellent trackability
  • Easy assembling and dismantling 
  • Multiple storage options
  • Can be converted into a tandem kayak

Cons

  • Relatively low weight capacity
  • Lacks rod holders and deck mounts

Bottom Line 

Point 65 N Falcon is one of the best budget modular kayaks on the market. It comes at a highly affordable price without sacrificing quality and it offers many perks to anglers, especially beginners looking for a simple and easy to use kayak to get them started.

4. Point 65 N Kingfisher – Highest Weight Capacity

The kingfisher kayak from Point 65 has he highest weight capacity of all other modular fishing kayaks on this list, with the solo model accommodating up to 287 pounds and the tandem model accomdtaing up to 573 pounds.

This sit-on-top kayak is every pro angler’s dream as it’s designed to provide incredible stability, speed, and trackbility in the water due to its sleek trimaran hull and the hand-controlled dual sided rudders. You can enjoy for stand-up fishing and other fishing techniques that require balance.

It’s easy to assemble, desseble, or convert into to tandem due to the patented Snap-Tap system. You also have the option to add ImpulseDrive pedal system, which is easy to attach to the kayak and easy to use. The pedal system is incredibly durable and efficient while maintaining its light weight.

To enhance your fishing experience further, the kayak features the super KingFisher Gamechair, which can be adjusted to give you the most comfortable and effeinceint paddling position. It also features 2 large storage spaces gear and multiple attachment rails for all your gear.

Pros

  • High weight capacity
  • Excellent trackbility and stability
  • Comfortable adjustable seat
  • Easy assembling and dismantling 
  • Multiple storage options and attachment rails
  • Can be converted into a tandem kayak
  • Can accommodate a pedal system

Cons

  • Expensive

Bottom Line

The Point 65 N Kingfisher is our most expensive pick, but it high price price is more than worth it for all the perks it offers. This kayak will help anglers get the most out of their fishing trip, whether they’re fishing in calm waters or rough waters, with it’s impressive performance and high weight capacity.

5. Martini GTX Angler – Best Sit-In Modular Kayak 

This is the only sit-in modular kayak on our list. You can easily snap its two parts together with the patented Snap-Tap system, and it features a spacious cockpit that helps you stay drier than a sit-on-top kayak would.

We love its wide hull that offers stunning stability. Moreover, its short length (9’4″ feet) is a double-edged weapon because it allows for easier maneuverability but doesn’t offer top-notch traceability.

You’ll definitely feel very comfortable in its seat as it features an adjustable backrest. Also, rest assured that you’ll have no storage problems as it features two large storage hatches to accommodate your gear.

It’s perfect for fishing as it features a fish-o-meter on the side so you can measure your catch, as well as 3 rod holders, two of which are flush-mounted behind the seat, and the third is on a deck mount in front of the paddler. You can also remove the deck-mounted rod holder and place any other fishing equipment you want. 

If you don’t want to fish solo, you can buy additional sections where each section has a seat. There’s also a tandem version that allows you to add a third section where a second paddler can sit. The solo and the tandem models accommodate up to 265 and 530 pounds, respectively. 

Pros:

  • Spacious cockpit
  • Wide hull for extra stability 
  • Comfortable backseat
  • large storage space
  • Can be converted into a tandem kayak
  • Easy assembling and dismantling
  • Multiple rod holders and mounts

Cons:

  • Lacks a footrest 
  • Lacks a drain plug 
  • Not the best trackability

Bottom Line 

If you’re looking for a sit-in modular fishing kayak, this is the ideal choice for you. Its spacious cockpit will ensure you stay as dry as possible during your trip. It’s highly stable and packed with various features to meet any angler’s needs, including a large storage space for your gear and versatile mounts.

How to Pick a Modular Fishing Kayak?

Before buying a modular kayak for fishing, you must know what should be on your checklist. In the following buying guide, you’ll find most of the essential factors that you must consider to be sure that you’re buying the model that best suits your needs. 

1. Weight Capacity 

The maximum weight capacity of the kayak is of paramount importance. You shouldn’t only consider your weight but also that of the gear and the fish you’ll hopefully catch. 

2. Storage Space 

Even though the storage space of a modular kayak is relatively lower than that of regular ones, you can create it. Magical, isn’t it? You can do so by converting your solo modular kayak into a tandem one by adding extra mid-sections. This way, you can use the second seat for storage. 

3. Dimensions

The shape of the kayak determines its maneuverability, stability, and speed. Thus, you must decide your priority. For example, if you need a stable kayak that turns easily, get a wide and short one. You’ll also appreciate this design if you’re a beginner. In case you’re looking for a speedy modular kayak, get a long and narrow model. 

Now, let’s discuss the nature of the water you’ll paddle in. Get a kayak whose length is between 14 and 18 feet if you’ll paddle in large lakes because they can handle big waves. If you’re more fond of paddling in calm rivers, you can go for ones around 8 to 15 feet long. 

4. Sit-In or Sit-On-Top

The name of the sit-on-top kayaks is self-explanatory. This type is usually used for fishing because it’s more stable than sit-in kayaks. When you’re looking for a modular kayak for fishing, I believe that the best thing to do is to go for a sit-on-top model, and here’s why I believe so.  

Most importantly, they’re user-friendly. Sit-on-top kayaks are easy to get in and out of, so in case of any emergency, you’ll hop right in or out of the kayak in no time. Plus, they have holes for easy drainage, which means no water will remain in your kayak, consequently ensuring stability and safety. They’re generally very convenient for beginners. 

On the other hand, sit-in kayaks are more suitable for professionals as they’re more liable to tipping. And they’re not easy to get out of, so the paddler needs to learn how to escape the hull. 

However, this doesn’t mean that they’re not excellent. For example, they offer more storage space and can be used in rough waters. 

5. The Hull Type 

The hull is the part that sits in the water, so it affects the kayak’s stability, maneuverability, and speed. There are four different shapes from which you could choose.

Rounded Hull 

This hull increases speed and boosts maneuverability. 

V-Shaped Hull

You may struggle a bit with keeping a V-shaped kayak stable when you’re getting in, but you’ll appreciate how stable it is whenever you’re paddling. It offers incredible trackability and is suitable for long-distance traveling. 

Flat Hull 

This kind of hull is excellent for beginners since it offers impressive stability and is easily maneuverable. 

Pontoon

The pontoon hull is the most stable of all the previous shapes. It’s the ideal choice for those looking for a kayak that helps them catch a huge number of fish on their fishing trips because they won’t be afraid of falling into the water during reeling. However, it’s very slow. 

6. Material 

It’s essential to choose a kayak with durable materials that can withstand UV rays and saltwater. Kayaks are usually made of plastic or thermoformed ABS, so let’s discuss them below. 

Most modular kayaks are made of lightweight polyethylene plastic, which makes them very easy to carry. Plastic is also durable enough to resist abrasion and water. However, it’s a bit hard to repair and gets damaged if handled carelessly.  I have a guide on why Plastic Kayaks are good here.

On the other hand, kayaks made of the pricier thermoformed ABS are more durable as they’re made of a combination of acrylic and plastic. This material can deal with sun exposure for long hours without getting damaged in any way. 

Why Would I Need to Use Modular Kayaks?

If you don’t have enough room to store a hardshell kayak, a modular kayak is your best option. You can easily break it down into pieces and keep it in whatever storage room you have available, as it does not demand much space. 

Also, buying an extra section to convert your solo kayak into a tandem is much cheaper than buying a tandem one. This makes it excellent for those who enjoy some quality time kayaking on their own but would also love to have company sometimes. 

Besides, you’ll be able to transport it anywhere with more ease because you can break it down and carry each section on its own. 

How to Assemble Modular Kayaks?

Assembling a modular kayak is as simple as playing a puzzle. The design allows the different sections to connect, and the structure is rigid enough to hold the modular kayak together. Furthermore, the design is just as easy to pull apart when you’re dismantling the kayak. 

Final Thoughts 

Buying a modular fishing kayak doesn’t look as hard now after reading the article, does it? Since we know that some of you may not be able to make your minds up as to which is the best modular fishing kayak yet, we’ve decided to recommend some models to you.

Our best pick is the Point 65 Tequila! GTX Angler Solo because it’s relatively lightweight, so you won’t struggle with transporting it from one place to another. Plus, its maximum weight capacity is reasonable, given that it’s a solo kayak. 

If you have no problem spending more money, you can use the tandem version that handles higher weight capacity. Besides, we appreciate that it comes with three-rod holders, allowing for hands-free fishing.  

We also recommend the Kingfisher it features the highest weight capacity, so you can bring as much gear as you need and carry more fish. This is the most expensive of our picks; however, its high price is worth it for all the excellent quality and perks it offers.

Kayak your way to Freedom

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